In a significant development, the Federal Government has given the green light for an increase of between 25% and 35% in salary for civil servants on the remaining six Consolidated Salary Structures. Additionally, pay rises have been sanctioned for pensioners under the Defined Benefits Scheme (DBS).
This announcement, made on a day when labour leaders reflected on the challenges faced by workers and the masses over the past year, marks a pivotal moment for public sector employees. The six Consolidated Salary Structures include the Consolidated Public Service Salary Structure (CONPSS), Consolidated Research and Allied Institutions Salary Structure (CONRAISS), Consolidated Police Salary Structure (CONPOSS), Consolidated Para-military Salary Structure (CONPASS), Consolidated Intelligence Community Salary Structure (CONICCS), and Consolidated Armed Forces Salary Structure (CONAFSS).
Previously, sectors such as tertiary education and health had already received salary increases under various structures like the Consolidated University Academic Salary Structure (CONUASS), Consolidated Tertiary Institutions Salary Structure (CONTISS), Consolidated Polytechnics and Colleges of Education Academic Staff Salary Structure (CONPCASS), Consolidated Tertiary Educational Institutions Salary Structure (CONTEDISS), Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), and Consolidated Health Sector Salary Structure (CONHESS).
According to a statement from the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC), signed by Emmanuel Njoku, the salary increases came into effect on January 1, 2024. The government also approved pension increases ranging from 20% to 28% for pensioners under the DBS, effective from the same date.
Labour leaders, reflecting on the challenges faced by workers and the masses, expressed concerns over the impact of government policies, including petrol price hikes, currency devaluation, and electricity tariff increases. They emphasized the need for fair wages and improved working conditions, calling for proactive measures to mitigate the adverse effects of economic policies on the populace.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar echoed these sentiments, expressing solidarity with Nigerian workers and criticizing government policies that have exacerbated socio-economic challenges. He called for a living wage that would alleviate poverty and ensure the well-being of workers.
Meanwhile, the federal government has declared today a public holiday to mark Workers’ Day, reiterating its commitment to fostering a conducive work environment and prioritizing the safety and well-being of all citizens. As workers celebrate their contributions to national development, the government underscores the importance of collaboration and sustainable practices to navigate challenges and build a prosperous nation.